Dead Pixel vs. Stuck Pixel: How to Spot the Difference & Fix It
Test your panel right now
Cycle black, white, red, green, and blue backgrounds fullscreen to verify if your defective pixel is dead (black) or stuck (colored).
1. Side-by-Side Comparison Summary
While both appear as tiny pixel-sized dots on your monitor or laptop screen, dead pixels and stuck pixels are physically opposite hardware states:
| Feature | Dead Pixel | Stuck Pixel |
|---|---|---|
| Color Appearance | Always black (or dark) | Glowing Red, Green, Blue, Yellow, Cyan |
| Best Test Slide | Solid Pure White & Light Gray | Solid Pure Black & Dark Gray |
| Transistor State | Permanently off / broken circuit | Permanently energized / locked gate |
| Repair Probability | 0% with software | 40% – 65% with color flashing |
| Warranty RMA Level | Typically requires 3 to 5 dark dots | Often replaced under Zero Bright Dot policies |
2. How to Test Which One You Have
To positively identify the defect type, perform the two-slide isolation test:
Launch the Dead Pixel Test on pure white. If you see a distinct, stubborn black dot, the pixel has lost power—it is a Dead Pixel.
Switch to pure black. If a glowing colored subpixel (red, green, blue) stays constantly lit against the darkness, the transistor is locked open—it is a Stuck Pixel.
3. Recommended Action Plan
- If You Have a Stuck Pixel: Run our Stuck Pixel Fixer for 30–60 minutes. If that fails, consult our guide on How to Fix a Stuck Pixel.
- If You Have a Dead Pixel: Do not press aggressively on the glass. If within your store return window (14 to 30 days), request an immediate exchange. If outside the return window, check your manufacturer's terms in our Dead Pixel Warranty Guide.
Related Diagnostic Tools
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I quickly tell if a pixel is dead or stuck?
Display a pure white screen and a pure black screen. If the spot is black on a white screen, it is a dead pixel. If the spot stays illuminated red, green, blue, or magenta on a pure black screen, it is a stuck pixel.
Is a stuck pixel covered under monitor warranty?
Yes. Most manufacturers classify stuck subpixels under their bright subpixel defect criteria. Brands offering 'Zero Bright Dot' (ZBD) warranties will replace a monitor with even 1 stuck bright subpixel within the coverage period.
Can a stuck pixel turn into a dead pixel?
Rarely. A stuck pixel indicates the transistor is still conducting power. However, aggressive physical pressure applied in an attempt to unstick it can crack the internal ITO traces, permanently converting it into a dead pixel.